I'm so excited to be working with you, and I can't wait for our upcoming session together! To help you feel fully prepared and at ease, I've put together this portrait guide filled with helpful tips and tricks. From choosing the perfect outfits, to managing your little ones, I've got you covered!

And remember, don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or concerns. I'm here to help in any way I can and want to ensure our time together is enjoyable and stress-free. Let's create some unforgettable memories together!

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Portrait GUIDE

family session

- Shannon Cliffe

style guide

What Clothes Should We Wear?

Start by selecting a base of two to three colours that can be used throughout everyone's outfits. Simple, muted colour families like earth tones, pastels, and neutrals complement skin tones well and create a classic feel in photographs.

Bonus tip! Avoid wearing fluorescent or neon colours and clothing with distracting elements such as cartoon characters or oversized logos.

Consider incorporating fabrics like linen, lace, ribbons, ruffles, and embroidery to add interest and variety to outfits. For example, lace accents on a blouse, ruffles on a skirt, or layering a cardigan or jacket over a dress can bring depth and dimension. 

Bonus tip! Avoid patterns smaller than a dime; they can create weird effects with digital cameras. Opt for larger, gentle patterns like florals or soft geometric shapes, and retrain from dressing everyone in patterns, as this can look overwhelming.

Simple accessories like necklaces, earrings, and bracelets can add sparkle, shine, or a pop of colour. For children, playful accessories like bow ties, suspenders, knee socks, hair bows, headbands, and flower crowns can bring a touch of whimsy. During colder months, hats and scarves provide warmth and style to your photos, and layering can add interest to your outfits. 

Choose simple, neutral-coloured, closed-toe shoes that won't distract from your outfit. Avoid bright or fluorescent colours. High heels are generally not recommended for outdoor sessions due to uneven terrain and soft ground. 

Bonus tip! Be prepared for the possibility that your shoes might get dirty or wet due to weather conditions, such as morning dew on the grass.

My Mission? To provide families with the convenience of an easy, stress-free (and fun!) photo session, paired with the luxury of beautiful, high-quality final images.

- Shannon Cliffe

calm & composed...

Managing Little Ones at Your Photo Session

Preparing for a photo session with little ones might feel daunting, but remember—you are not alone. As a parent who has experienced tantrums, laughter, and all the delightful chaos in between, I understand what you're going through and will be there to support you. My goal is to ensure that your family has a great experience, all while creating beautiful photographs that you will enjoy for years to come.

If you remember only one thing on the day of your photo session, let it be this: try to remain calm and composed, no matter what challenges might arise. Whether your child is in perpetual motion, feeling shy, or simply not in the mood for posing, there's no need to feel stressed or embarrassed.

Children are like emotional sponges, absorbing the energy around them, so maintaining a positive attitude is essential. I want your little ones to feel comfortable and relaxed so that they can express their authentic selves, showcasing their distinctive personalities and endearing quirks. These candid moments highlight their irresistible charm and make for amazing photographs.

So, embrace your little ones' delightful unpredictability, for in that chaos lies the opportunity to create unforgettable memories that will be treasured forever.


Sunset & Bedtimes

During the warmer months, evening photo sessions can extend into children's bedtimes. As a parent, I recognize the importance of a consistent bedtime routine for little ones. But as a photographer, I encourage you to adjust your schedule slightly so we can take advantage of that magical golden hour light.

Consider adjusting your child's nap schedule on the day of the session or allow them to sleep in a little longer that morning. You can even pack their pajamas so that when we're done, you can quickly tuck them into bed upon returning home, ensuring that they get the rest they need.

Flexibility is key in planning "golden hour" sessions while maintaining your family's routine. By making a few minor adjustments, we can capture beautiful moments together without compromising on the comfort and well-being of your little ones.

time & light

Is There a "Good" Time to Take Photos?

I've come to understand that there's no one-size-fits-all answer to the "perfect" time for a photoshoot. Instead, it's all about envisioning the final look and feel you want for your images. The quality of light during your session plays a crucial role in shaping the mood and aesthetic of your photos.

I love scheduling sessions during the magical "golden hour." During this time, usually 2-3 hours after sunrise or 2-3 hours before sunset, the sun hangs low in the sky, casting a soft, flattering glow that adds depth and warmth to the scene. Plus, shooting during these hours helps avoid the midday sun's harsh shadows, overexposed highlights, and squint-inducing glare.

Of course, weather can sometimes throw a curveball into plans. If it's rainy or heavily overcast, we might need to tweak our timing to ensure enough daylight. But don't worry—I'll keep a close eye on the forecast and reach out to you on the day of your session to make any necessary adjustments. Your comfort and the quality of your photos are my top priorities!

If the weather on the day of your session is unfavourable, we have a few options to ensure your session is still a success. If it's lightly raining but still warm, I have some clear umbrellas that look great in photos. For instance, we could capture fantastic photos of kids jumping in rain puddles. And if the weather is terrible, we will simply reschedule your session. Depending on the situation, we may change the session time on your scheduled day or move to a new day altogether.

Typically, I keep Sundays free as possible "rain dates" for any sessions that must be rescheduled each week. However, I'm flexible and will work with you to find a plan that suits your needs and preferences. My goal is to ensure that you have a wonderful and memorable experience, no matter the weather conditions.

Inclement Weather

what to do if it rains

furry friends

Can We Bring Our Pet for Photos?

Pets are an important part of the family and are always welcome at my photo sessions. However, to ensure your pet is comfortable and relaxed during the session, consider exercising them beforehand and bring their favourite toy or treats. Additionally, depending on your pet's fur type, grooming them before the session might be a good idea to help them look their best.


We may not use your pet in all the photos, depending on how they feel and the shots we're taking. Plan for your pet to be present at the beginning of the session, and arrange for someone else to take care of them in between shots or to take them home.

Shannon's love for photography and capturing the joy in families and personality in children is evident in all her finished work. I have and will continue to recommend her to everyone.

- the optimistic mama

posing at the session...

What Should I Do With My Hands?

Don't worry about posing for your session. I'll guide you and your family every step of the way! I usually start with easy, traditional poses where everyone looks at the camera and then gradually transition to more creative and expressive poses. I also have several "games" that I teach families to play, which usually result in candid and lively photos - especially great for kiddos!

Suppose I ask you to do something funny or unusual - trust the process. I'm trying to create the perfect moment to make everyone smile or laugh. Throughout the session, I'll pay close attention to your hair, makeup, and outfits to ensure everything looks right. 

I aim to make you feel as comfortable and relaxed as possible so that your family's true personality shines through in every photo. We'll work together to create a fun and enjoyable atmosphere where you can let your guard down and have a great time.

Shannon has an amazing eye and has taken my favourite pictures of my kids. She allows and encourages everyone to be natural. I highly recommend her services!

- Becky Cliffe Polacco

large groups

Extended Family Sessions

Preparing for an extended family photo shoot is an exciting task that requires careful planning to ensure that everything runs smoothly and that results in beautiful and cherished memories. Before the photo session, I will send you an email or a questionnaire to request a list of all the family groupings beforehand. This will help me understand who should be photographed together. You don't need to draw me a family tree (bonus points if you do!), but it would be great if you could provide me with a list of family groupings like this:

Grandma - Jean
Grandpa - Max

Sam (son of Jean + Max) and Tina
Their Kids: Jason (10), Julianne (5) and Jack (2)

Elizabeth (son of Jean + Max) and Paul
Their Kids: Austin (9) and Claire (6) 

I will also ask you for a shot list with your "must-have" photos and combinations of people you want to ensure we capture. Having this list ready before your session will help us stay organized and ensure we capture all the important moments. Here is a sample list:

- Entire extended family
- Grandparents on their own
- Grandparents with their adult children
- Grandparents with their grandchildren
- Grandchildren on their own
- Family A
      - Family photo
      - Parent/Couples photo
      - Children/Siblings photo
      - Headshot of each child
- Family B
      - Family photo
      - Parent/Couples photo
      - Children/Siblings photo
      - Headshot of each child
- Family C
      - Family photo
      - Parent/Couples photo
      - Children/Siblings photo
      - Headshot of each child
- All of the girls
- All of the boys
- Etc.

SAMPLE Shot List 

When selecting clothing for your extended session, try to choose complementary colours or agree on a colour palette of 2-3 shades everyone likes. This approach ensures visual cohesion while allowing each family member to express their own style. Avoid busy patterns, oversized logos, or clothing with cartoon characters, as these elements can be distracting. Opting for slightly elevated attire, like dressing in your "Sunday best," is a great choice and helps create timeless images.

I am based in Thamesford, Ontario, Canada, about 15 minutes East of London.

where are you located?

Frequently

asked

Questions

A mini-family session lasts about 25 minutes, offering a quick but meaningful experience. On the other hand, a full session can extend up to 60 minutes or more. I aim to create a complete final gallery that beautifully captures you and your family, prioritizing quality over clock-watching. While mini sessions are time-bound by design, full sessions allow flexibility; if additional time is required, I will happily extend the session to ensure we capture all the essential shots we need.

How long does a typical family session last?

Your photos will be ready within 2 weeks of your session date. On average, a mini-session results in 15-20 edited images, while a full-session results in 50-60 (or more) edited images.

When will my photos be ready, and how many can I expect to receive?

Of course! You may share your images on social media. While it's not mandatory, I would greatly appreciate it if you tagged "Shannon Cliffe Photography." You can link to my Facebook or Instagram page or include my website address: www.shannoncliffe.com.

Can I share the images on social media?

If the weather is unagreeable on the day of your session, we will likely reschedule. Sometimes, we can move your session time earlier (or later) on the same day, and sometimes, we will reschedule for a new day altogether.

What if the weather is unagreeable on the day of my session?

I understand that life can be unpredictable, especially with little ones in the family. As a parent myself, I completely get it. If someone in your family falls ill on the day of our session, we can reschedule. The health and safety of everyone involved is of utmost importance to me.

What if someone is sick or feels unwell on the day of the session? 

Yes, I offer gift certificates in the dollar amount of your choice, making it easy for you to give the gift of cherished memories to your friends and family. It's the perfect present for birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion.

Do you offer gift certificates for photography services?

In this digital era, it's all too easy to snap a picture and let it fade into the depths of a digital album, forgotten. Yet, I firmly believe that printed photographs hold a unique, irreplaceable magic. Holding a physical print in your hands can instantly take you back to a cherished moment, evoking feelings of happiness, love, and nostalgia. This is why I'm so passionate about encouraging families to print and proudly display their photos in their homes, where they can be cherished daily.

When you choose me as your photographer, you are not just investing in a simple photoshoot, but in a journey of creating and preserving timeless memories that will last a lifetime. As a heartfelt gesture of my commitment to this journey, I am delighted to provide each family with a complimentary set of 4 x 6 keepsake prints. You can also order additional prints and products from the convenience of your online gallery. All prints are crafted in my professional print lab and are of the highest quality.

Remember, prints are more than just photographs - they are tangible reminders of the love, laughter, and joy your family shares, and a testament to your family's unique bond.

Bring Your Images to Life with 

prints

Thank you for taking the time to read through this guide. I hope it has helped prepare you for your upcoming portrait session. If you have any questions or if there's anything I can assist you with, please feel free to email me. I'm excited to work with you and capture some beautiful memories!

- Shannon

Thank you!